Best Rifle Scopes Under $500 – Honest Tell All Review

Best Overall:
Vortex Optics Diamondback

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If you’re familiar with scopes, then you’re probably not surprised to see Vortex top our list of riflescopes that are available for under $500. Vortex is one of the more trusted brands for this type of product and for all the best reasons.

For one, it is one of the most durable products out there. It is shockproof so it can withstand a great deal of recoil regardless of how long you use it. What stands out other than its durability is the patented Dead-Hold reticle. Not only will you accurately shoot targets at long range, but you’ll be able to choose all kinds of ranges.

Of course, the multi-coated lenses allow clear sharp views that will keep bright even when the light conditions are low. Finally, you'll enjoy a zoom range of up to 4x with an easy to adjust side focus that will help you make some small adjustment before you take your shot.

Let’s not forget that not only is this sucker shockproof, but it’s also waterproof and shockproof. So, no matter what the weather conditions are, you’re still going to get a pretty good shot out of this. If you want a durable scope that will give you a clear shot and will last you a great while, you might be happy with the Vortex.

Bottom Line

The Vortex Diamondback is a pretty good scope for your rifle. Even if something does go wrong with it, you know that you’ll have a lifetime warranty that is customer-friendly and you will have a replacement in no time.

The scope itself makes a name for itself for being one of the best available for under $500. If you want a device that can last you a long time, the Vortex Diamondback just might be it.

Runner-up: 
Nikon P-223 BDC 600

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If not for Vortex, then obviously Nikon would be considered the top dog when it comes to riflescopes. This is a great choice for a handful of reasons. Number one, this eliminates parallax so you're shooting is at your most precise.

The second is the generous amount of eye relief that you get. You can still be able to get a clear view even when you don't look far too close into your scope. Finally, the Nikon is waterproof and fog proof. That, of course, is more than enough confirmation to say that this can withstand bad weather.

Bottom Line

The Nikon is best known for their unmistakable optics. And you will get crystal clear optics with this scope. Even at distances 100 yards and beyond, it will not disappoint you. So you're certain to get a good accurate shot no matter how far the target is. If you want a product with a high-quality field of view, you'll probably love the Nikon.

Best Long Range Rifle Scope: 
Vortex Optics Strike Eagle

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Once again, we go back to the Vortex brand for this scope review. We all know that Vortex brand scopes tend to be very strong. But can they also do a good job giving you the best accuracy at long range? The answer is yes.

The lens has several anti-reflective coatings to ensure that there is no glare, making your shot much clearer than ever. Even at the highest magnification level, you won’t have to worry about wind issues and holdover. Its 30mm tube is designed to be a strong, durable device that can withstand recoil after recoil. And because they’re so confident in it being strong, it’s even back by...you guessed it, a lifetime warranty.

Also included with is the zero resettable, tactical style turrets that have marked adjustment rotation indicators so you can accurately dial in your preferred adjustments.

Bottom Line

If you want a durable product for your long-range rifle, you might be happy with the Vortex Strike Eagle. You can still get some precise aims in, even in low light conditions. Not to mention, the field of view is pretty clear as well. A durable, but clear scope for long-range shooting? If that's what you're looking for, then the Vortex can't be beaten.

Best Illuminated Rifle Scope:
Primary Arms 4-14x44 FFP Rifle Scope

Illumination is important when it comes to scopes. In low light conditions, you can still be able to get a good shot off with just enough light to see the target. If you want an illuminated option that gets the job done, you'll probably like the Primary Arms Rifle Scope. It is constructed with high-quality aluminum to ensure that it is durable and withstand amounts of recoil with every shot your take.

This has a magnification range from 4x to 14x, so you can take your shot at whatever level you see as fit. As for illumination, this is where this product really makes it worth the money. This features six brightness settings and has an "off" notch between each setting. You can still take a clear, bright shot even when the lighting conditions are low.

And if something goes wrong with it it's backed by a three-year warranty. Primary Arms will either repair it or replace it. Regardless, you still get a good product with excellent illumination options.

Bottom Line

For a rifle scope under $500, the Primary Arms does pretty well. You get a durable product that can give you a clear, bright shot every time. As one reviewer says, “a scope like this is hard to find”. So consider yourself lucky if you decide on a product like the Primary Arms.

Best Hunting Rifle Scope: 
Leupold VX-1 3-9x40mm

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Lastly, we wrap this up with yet another reputable brand for scopes. The Leupold is one brand that gives someone like Vortex a run for their money. Long lasting durability and a lifetime warranty are what set Leupold from most of its competitors.

One of the best features that come with a Leupold is it's iconic 3:1 zoom ratio. You can enjoy zooming in on a target and be able to get a good look at your target before taking the shot.

The magnification levels on the Leupold range from 3x to 9x. It's waterproof, fog proof, and even shockproof. Not only will it withstand recoil time and time again, but it will also withstand whatever elements nature throws its way.

The Multicoat 4-lens system gives you an edge to edge clarity and a bright picture, even in low lighting conditions. You can easily make adjustments for windage and elevation with ¼ MOA precision finger click adjustments.

Bottom Line

For hunting situations, you'll want a scope that will last you outing after outing, and season after season. Leupold takes pride in manufacturing a scope that is built to last and gives you an excellent shot every time you use it. If things go wrong with it, you'll know that it can be repaired or replaced thanks to the lifetime warranty. If you want a brand that you can trust for a lifetime, then Leupold may be the brand for you.